Facebook launches App Center for web and mobile users

Facebook officially launched its own app store late Thursday with a collection of free social apps for the web as well as Android and iOS mobile platforms. The move comes as the company looks to capitalize on the increasing number of users accessing its popular social network with mobile devices.

App Center opens with around 600 apps, with an emphasis on quality, and includes apps such as Nike+ GPS, Pinterest and Draw Something, web apps and many popular games for Android, iPhone and iPad owners.

Those using Windows Phone or BlackBerry will be disappointed however, as App Center doesn't currently support these devices, and it's currently unclear if the situation will change with future updates.

"The App Center gives you personalized recommendations, and lets you browse the apps your friends use. It only lists high-quality apps, based on feedback from people who use the app," said Matt Wydnowe, Facebook's product manager for apps and games.

Every one of the apps in the new store includes detailed descriptions and screenshots so users can learn more about each particular app before installing it. For some apps, installing is as simple as clicking the "send to mobile" button on the app's page. For those that need to be downloaded, you'll be sent automatically to the correct store pages of Google Play or the Apple App Store, depending on your device.

Referring to the usual privacy concerns associated with Facebook, Wydnowe said App Center actually "helps you control your privacy by showing the information an app needs and letting you choose who can see your activity on Facebook. If you decide you want to use an app, you can get started directly from the App Center."

Wall Street didn't seem too impressed with the social network's latest move however, with shares down 1.79% to $26.33 at the end of trading yesterday. Those in the US will get access to the new Facebook App Center first, with the rest of the world to follow very shortly.